Plattsburgh, NY - Walter P. Sears, 83, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, at CVPH, holding the hand of his eldest son. While our hearts are heavy, we are also grateful that he is now able to rest in peace.

Walt was born in Buffalo, N.Y., on Aug. 1, 1942, to Osmyn and Virginia Sears. After several years in Ellenburg Depot, he eventually settled in West Chazy, N.Y. He also spent the last 30 plus winters in Arizona. Over the last 15 months, Walt enjoyed his apartment at the Vilas Home. He respected, appreciated and loved the staff and residents.

He retired from Clinton Correctional in 1983. Prior to his career with NYSDOCS, he was a machine operator, a barber, security guard and a ship welder. The longest "career" of his storied life was that of a "Professional Bum," as he would proudly boast.

Walt was a very proud and involved member of the Adirondack Riders Motorcycle Club for over 30 years.

Walt was proud to be an Ordained Minister and performed many marriage ceremonies, baptisms and even bike blessings.

He was truly one of a kind; full of personality, love, opinions and knowledge, which he was never afraid to share.

Walt is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Paula Sears of Cheektowaga, N.Y.; his favorite daughter, Cheryl LeClair of Altona; and his son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Penny Sears of Alden, N.Y.; as well as four grandchildren, Eric LeClair and his partner, Megan, Adam LeClair, Hunter Sears and Lilly Sears; and two great-grandchildren, Declan LeClair and Lexi LeClair.

As an only child, he is also amazingly survived by many "brothers and sisters" acquired through his affiliation with the motorcycle community, his many travels and his new friends and family at Vilas.

Walt was predeceased by his parents; his former wife and mother of his children, Janet Sears; and his third wife, Janet Sears-McIntyre. He was also predeceased by many friends and beloved dogs.

Our family would like to thank the staff on R4 at CVPH for their compassion and care during Dad's final hours.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Walter on April 19, 2026, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the West Plattsburgh American Legion Post 1619. Family and friends are invited to share their stories and celebrate a remarkable life well-lived. 

Donations in his honor may be made to the North Country Honor Flight.

Arrangements are in the care of the Ross Funeral Home.